Campral

Campral is the brand name for acamprosate calcium. It’s an FDA-approved medication that treats alcohol use disorder by reducing alcohol cravings during recovery. Campral is not a stand-alone cure and works best as part of a medication assisted treatment (MAT) plan that also includes counseling, group support, and social support. 

Here are some factors that help determine whether Campral is the right drug for a given person: 

Campral is processed by the kidneys, not the liver, which can make it a suitable option for patients with liver disease. However, it isn’t recommended for people with severe kidney disease. Those with moderate kidney impairment usually need a lower dose and regular kidney function monitoring. 

Because it’s not processed by the liver like most drugs, Campral has few interactions. This is important if a person is using certain medications or substances that interact with other MAT options. 

Evidence shows Campral works best after a patient has already stopped drinking. It reduces cravings and helps maintain abstinence, but it doesn’t help with sudden withdrawal symptoms. 

Campral is generally well-tolerated, so it may be a good option for patients concerned about medication side effects. 

At BrightView, your intake includes a thorough medical assessment so your mediction assisted treatment safely fits your health needs. 

Experts aren’t completely sure how Campral works, but they believe it helps restore the brain’s chemical balance that’s disrupted by heavy alcohol use. It affects two important brain systems: glutamate (a chemical that excites brain activity) and GABA (a chemical that calms the brain) to reduce cravings and support long-term recovery.  

Unlike other medicines such as disulfiram (Antabuse), which makes people feel sick if they drink alcohol, Campral doesn’t cause that reaction. It helps people stay alcohol-free by reducing the desire to drink, not by making them ill. 

Some patients may start using Campral while cutting back on alcohol, but it’s designed to support long-term recovery and ongoing abstinence. 

Most Campral side effects are mild and temporary. The most common side effect is diarrhea. Other potential effects include: 

• Sweating, dry mouth, or flatulence 
• Insomnia or weakness 
• Anxiety, nausea, dizziness 
• High blood pressure or weight gain 
• Suicidal thoughts (this is rare; seek help immediately if this occurs) 

Report side effects to your physician and seek urgent support for any concerning mood changes. 

Drugs alone don't treat alcohol use disorder. Campral and other AUD medicines work best as part of a broader medication assisted treatment plan. Our treatment programs combine MAT with psychosocial support to empower patients to take back their lives: 

• Individual counseling to help patients identify alcohol use triggers, build coping skills, and establish healthy routines 
• Group therapy to reduce the isolation that often accompanies alcohol use disorder, while learning practical strategies and building a support network 
• Case management to help with insurance, referrals, housing, employment, and other practical needs 
• Aftercare services with return to use prevention, regular check-ins, and continued access to groups to support long-term recovery 

We offer compassionate, accessible care at our outpatient locations. This includes weekday walk-ins and same-day appointments for many patients. 

You don't have to do this alone. BrightView will always provide the safest level of care available. We're available 24/7 at 888.501.9865 to answer questions and schedule appointments. You can also find a location near you and schedule an appointment online. 

Important note: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or another qualified professional before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment or medication.